A recertification audit renews your certificate for a further three years. It is a full reassessment of your management system and its performance over the whole cycle.
When to Schedule It
Plan it a few months before your certificate expires. The audit, the closure of any major nonconformities and the certification decision must all be completed before the expiry date to avoid a gap in certification.
What It Covers
- The whole management system against all requirements
- Performance over the full three-year cycle, including trends in objectives, complaints and corrective actions
- How the system has adapted to changes in the organization and its context
- Effectiveness of internal audits and management review
Audit Duration
Usually shorter than the initial audit, often around two-thirds of the initial audit time, because there is an established record of performance. Your proposal confirms the exact days.
If Your Certificate Expires
An expired certificate can no longer be used and shows as “Expired” in the verification system. Depending on how much time has passed, certification may be restored through a recertification audit within a limited period, or initial certification may be required.
Updating Scope or Standards
Recertification is a good moment to update your scope, add sites, or move to integrated audits for several standards.